Federal Transfer Taxes: The Possibility of Repeal and the Post Repeal World

Abstract

The piece is a thoughtful and nuanced appraisal of the chances of the complete repeal of the Federal Estate Tax and of the consequences of such a repeal. The article proposes, among other things, that complete repeal would increase charitable giving, not decrease it. For instance, the paper includes discussion of charitable giving as a luxury good and the consumption of luxury goods. The idea of increased charitable gifts flowing from estate tax repeal is contrary to received wisdom. Recent commentary suggests that Professor Dobris' predictions about reform of the estate tax are likely to eventually become the law.